I don't need a system to rock the whole lake, just want something decent. Would I need one or two amps? I also want a receiver that will handle some wave action on the water and not be skipping all the time.

clubmyke is recommending that your deck have a higher line level output.

I have used that deck and it is a good value if you need a wired remote since it is included. The rough water performance is so so, it has only one set of line outs, and the remote is not waterproof. You might want to consider the Rockford Fosgate marine deck.

I have had good luck with the Blaupunkt amp too but they can be sensitive to engine noise and a few other quirks. They are small and ugly but they seem to produce a decent amount of power.

internal amp- most internal amps are too low powered,. they are 4-10 watt x 4 channels. this is wires that come out from the back of the deck and conncect directly to the speaker.

preamp- this ouput(rca connectors) is what is used to connect to a external amplifer via rca connectors. these are measured by voltage (1 volt=2.83 watts).... if you are going to run external amps ( highly recommomended) the output from the rca's should be at least 5 volts). then the speaker are connected to the higher powered amp.

boats require alot more power as do subs..much more power than expected.....

a lot will depend on your budget and how much you would like to spend..

would suggest putting together a budget of how much you would like to spend and deceide on the system design..

regarding the deck- there is alot to chose from. a big deceiding factor will be if you want a marine remote on the boat...

if you are considering amps...tough call....most "good" amps are american.. would suggest jl audio,ppi,older rockford fosgate,zapco... they may cost a little more, but will sound better and go louder (needed on a boat) and be more reliable. you can find some good deals on ebay...needless to say buy from a relaible seller..

btw, blaupunkt first 2 amps were designed and built by zapco in the usa... they come up once in a while on ebay and are fantastic amps ( 2120b and 5350b) for very reasonable prices unless someone know what they are..

I'll sell you my JVC head unit and the 12 disc CD changer together for 100 bucks plus shipping. It's a CH-X 400 cd changer and I can't remember the model of the head unit but I can get it, but it is am/fm cassette, with CD changer control, 4 pre-set equalizer modes, 12 am and fm presets and removable face. Has one set of pre-outs. It's 4 channel with 50w peak, probably about 23 RMS per channel.

the problem with inexpensive(new) is you get what you pay for or used /better quality you dont get a warranty...which i have always used...

general rue of thumb...anything with moving parts will eventaully need service...i will pick amps used off ebay but head units/changers new from local dealer...

would suggest checking with you local authorized dealer and look for 5 volt alpine or eclipse(3 year warranty) that is last years model at a great price...but since they are in a boat,if they get water damaged the warranty doesnt apply